RU-486 (Mifepristone)

RU-486 is the code name for a new abortion drug that is now widely known as Mifepristone. This drug was developed in France and has been shown to be highly effective in inducing spontaneous abortion when administered in early pregnancy.

RU-486 Crystallites at 60x Magnification

RU-486 Crystallites at 60x Magnification

RU-486 Crystallites at 200x Magnification

Mifepristone has also been demonstrated to be highly effective as a post-coital contraceptive (morning after pill) when administered within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. Additional studies have shown the drug has the potential for preventing implantation and inducing menstruation when administered in the last half of the menstrual cycle.

Transmitted oblique illumination was obtained with a Hoffman-style substage condenser fitted with an offset aperture slit, which provides illumination from an oblique angle with respect to the optical axis of the QX3 microscope. Digital images were recorded with the QX3 interactive software operating from the Live View menu. In the case of birefringent specimens, a polarizer was added beneath the Hoffman condenser and an analyzer was placed in front of the QX3 lens cover. In some instances, a full-wave retardation plate was inserted between the specimen and the analyzer before capturing images.